Mamba

Presentation

Mamba designates several species of venomous snakes of the Dendroaspis genus, including the famous black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) and the green Mamba (Dendroaspis viridis in particular). These African reptiles are among the most feared snakes due to the power of their neurotoxic venom and their liveliness. The black Mamba, the most famous, is also one of the fastest snakes in the world over short distances. The green Mambas, more arboreal, are discreet and less aggressive than their terrestrial cousin. They occupy various environments in sub-Saharan Africa, from savannahs to forests. No Mamba species are present in Tunisia.

Long and slender body, which can exceed 3 meters for the black Mamba, with a narrow coffin-shaped head. Coloration varies from olive-gray to dark brown for the black Mamba (whose name comes from the black inside of its mouth), to bright green for arboreal species. The scales are smooth and shiny, and the eyes have a round pupil characteristic of venomous colubrids with fixed fangs.

Characteristics

Indicative values: they vary by subspecies, sex and region.

Habitat and distribution

The black Mamba frequents savannahs, rocky areas and light forests, while the green Mambas favor tropical forests and dense wooded areas. These snakes seek out shelters such as termite mounds, rock crevices or tree cavities. They generally avoid areas that are too humid or desert.

Behaviour

The Mamba is a diurnal, active and fast snake, capable of fleeing quickly in case of danger rather than attacking directly. It becomes defensive when it feels cornered, raising the front of its body and opening its mouth as a sign of warning. The black Mamba is mainly terrestrial while the green Mambas are mainly arboreal. It is a solitary animal that does not form social groups.

Reproduction

Reproduction is oviparous, the female laying between 6 and 17 eggs depending on the species, generally in the warm season. Incubation lasts about 80 to 90 days, after which the young are completely autonomous and already venomous upon hatching. No parental care is provided after egg-laying.

Peculiarities

The black Mamba gets its name from the black color of the inside of its mouth, visible when it feels threatened, and not from the color of its skin. Its neurotoxic venom acts very quickly on the nervous system, causing paralysis which can be fatal without rapid antivenom treatment. Despite its reputation, the black Mamba generally avoids contact with humans.

Threats and conservation

The Mambas are threatened by the destruction of their natural habitat due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. They are also persecuted by local people out of fear, which leads to their direct destruction. Habitat fragmentation limits their movements and hunting areas.

References

Profile updated 02 September 2026 · Reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team.